The perfect wedding is not complete without the perfect wedding playlist. Therefore, creating a personalized list of songs that rings true to your love, your story, and your day is a great way to set the soundtrack to your event. Music creates connections and memories in a way that in unparalleled. Plus, creating a playlist will leave you with a gift to enjoy long after the wedding is over! Listening to your wedding playlist post wedding will bring back all of those memories and special moments. Above all, this playlist will come in handy every time you want to relive your day.
“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” –Victor Hugo.
Above, Rachael and Cameron danced their first dance to Si Tu Vois Ma Mere, played by their French Jazz band. Photo by Mary Claire Photography.
Your Wedding Day Soundtrack
There’s something about weddings making them “impossible to be silent” during such an exciting time. Music truly does define feelings and emotions in a way that we couldn’t define alone. Whether prepping, getting ready for the wedding day, or having a lovely playlist as your guests arrive, the correct type of music will set the mood for your perfect wedding day! Most importantly, music allows you to express your love to one another while creating a romantic setting. Creating this playlist is a great way to escape the stress of planning a wedding. Because of that, we recommend working on this playlist throughout your planning process. As a result, your song selections will be well thought-out and a reflection of your love.
Mikyla and Kyston danced to an acoustic version of Miguel’s song Sure Thing for their first dance. Photo by Eden Strader.
Creating Your Playlist
One of our favorite tasks while planning is helping our clients curate the perfect song list for their band or DJ to play. From some of the classics to hidden treasures, this wedding playlist covers a broad range of the emotions and feelings we get during wedding season. So, as William Shakespeare once said, “If music be the food of love, play on.” Almost every couple we work with enjoys considering songs for their first dance. Similarly, fathers and mothers love helping decide songs for the father-daughter and mother-son dances. This is a great place to involve your loved ones in the planning process.
Lindsey and Steve danced under the lights to Say You Won’t Let Go. Photo by Kenzie Victory.
Rather than stressing over your playlist or music selections, consider asking your bridal party to help. Another great way to help your bridal party bond is creating a collaborative playlist where everyone can share their ideas. As a result, everyone will be excited to get out on the dance floor.
In contrast to a wedding DJ who would welcome a detailed playlist, many bands have a pre-set list of songs. Rather than using that as an excuse to skip out on creating a playlist, consider using the playlist for other elements of your wedding. Consider your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, or even while getting ready! Another great time for your soundtrack would be at your wedding after party.
Check out some of our top picks for songs to add to your Wedding Playlist!
Wedding Playlist:
Two Little Words ( I Do) — Reuben Koops
Perfect / Can’t Help Falling in Love — Joey Stamper
This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) — Natalie Cole
I Will Spend My Whole Life Loving You — Imaginary Future
You Are The Best Thing — Ray LaMontagne
Come Away With Me — Norah Jones
Can’t Take My Eyes Off You — Frankie Valli
Fly Me To The Moon — Frank Sinatra
How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)
Say You Won’t Let Go — James Arthur
I Knew This Would Be Love — Imaginary Future
The Simple Things — Michael Carreon
I Wanna Dance With Somebody — Whitney Houston
Favorite Real Wedding Dance Moments
Even more than cutting the cake, your guests love watching you and your better half for you first dance. Not only is it traditional and timeless, it is a special moment for your guests to see your unique love. Rather than being embarrassed with all of the attention on you, consider how your song choice, dance style, and timing will enhance the moment for the two of you. Above all, enjoy every second of it! Your wedding day passes so quickly and your dance is a great time to slow down and reflect on the day.
Nicole and Nate dancing in front of draped florals at their summer celebration. Rather than something formal or too traditional, this couple opted to dance to an upbeat Indie track.
In contract, Cassidy and Andrew selected a popular rap song to start the party. They shared their first dance at their destination celebration on the beaches of the Dominican Republic. Photo by Mary Claire Photography.
Another couple, Caroline and Oliver, celebrated with a first dance as husband and wife at their hidden garden ceremony and celebration. Photo by Kenzie Victory.
Lexi and Garrett sharing their love at their classic backyard reception surrounded by friends and family.
Finally, Joe and Jordan, who celebrated their love with a dance to Magic by Coldplay at their destination Park City wedding. Photo by India Earl.
Every wedding and love story has a style, a feel, and a mood. What will the soundtrack to your day be?
Written by Annie Orr for Rachael Ellen Events
